Household appliance recycling: when it falls into the waste category

This article discusses the classification of household appliances in the category of e-waste, according to Brazilian legislation, the challenges for correct recycling, the environmental risks and the importance of safe and regulated disposal.

Definition and Scope of the E-waste Category

The term e-waste refers to waste from electronic equipment and household appliances that are no longer useful to the consumer. According to the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010, art. 3, item XIII, available at planalto.gov.br), it is solid waste generated by electrical and electronic products discarded after the end of their useful life.

Home appliances fall into the classification of electrical and electronic waste when they contain electrical and electronic components. Examples include refrigerators, microwaves, washers, dryers and electric stoves. This inclusion is defined in the guidelines of the National Solid Waste Management Information System (SINIR, available at sinir.gov.br), whose parameters deal with waste that requires special management due to its toxic composition and potential environmental impact.

Legislation Applicable to the Recycling of Household Appliances

In addition to Law No. 12.305/2010, Decree No. 10.936/2022 (available at planalto.gov.br) regulates the reverse logistics of electrical and electronic products, including household appliances. This standard establishes that manufacturers, importers and retailers must ensure that the waste is returned for environmentally appropriate disposal.

State environmental agencies, such as CETESB in São Paulo (information at cetesb.sp.gov.br), have specific regulations for handling e-waste, highlighting the need for correct disposal to avoid contamination of soil and water bodies.

Challenges in Handling and Recycling

The complexity of recycling household appliances stems from the diversity of materials and components that make them up, which can include heavy metals, plastics, electronic circuits, as well as insulating substances and refrigerants that can cause risks to human health and the environment when disposed of incorrectly.

To minimize risks, it is essential to follow the protocols for collecting electronic waste available at ecobraz.org/en_BR/eletronicos, ensuring that the waste receives appropriate treatment and reuse in accordance with safety standards.

Importance of Safe Disposal of Devices with Data

Devices with memory, such as hard disks (HDs) in smart home appliances and embedded media, require special attention when being disposed of to prevent sensitive information from leaking out. The sanitization of hard drives and media is an official procedure that guarantees the safe destruction of data and the protection of privacy, according to recommended practices available at ecobraz.org/en_BR/sanitizacao-de-hd.

Conclusion

Home appliances are a relevant segment within the category of electronic waste (e-waste). Correct classification, collection, disposal and recycling based on current legislation are essential to mitigate environmental impacts and protect public health. Adherence to standards and the use of certified collection and sanitization services are essential measures to ensure sustainability in the life cycle of this equipment.